Kim Jong Un slams ‘serious accident’ at North Korean warship launch

The leader of North Korea called it a 'criminal act'.

The leader of North Korea labelled the incident a 'criminal act'.

State media reported that parts of the 5,000-ton destroyer's bottom were crushed, causing the vessel to tip off balance.

The leader, who was present at the launch, has called for the ship to be restored before a key party meeting in June.

Additionally, he has ordered that those involved in the ship's design be held responsible for the incident.

He said it 'severely damaged the dignity and pride of our nation in an instant'.

Reports from the state's media did not include anything about injuries or casualties.

Kim blamed the incident on 'absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism'.

'Irresponsible errors' of those involved will be dealt with at next month's plenary meeting.

Consequences they may face are not yet clear.